At the Fruit Logistica convention in Berlin, Germany, earlier this year, retailers were intrigued with the produce department misting systems offered for sale, but not enough to purchase them.

"People wanted to see the new technology from America, but we have found that retailers [in Europe and elsewhere] are just not open for change," said Itamar Kleinberge, vice president of Prodew Misting & Humidification in Marietta, GA.

The California Strawberry Commission's 2006 acreage survey reports different trends for fall-planted acreage compared to acreage planted in the summer months.

Pacific Tomato Growers Ltd. has announced the promotion of Billy L. Heller Jr. to the newly created position of chief executive officer of Florida-based Pacific Tomato Growers Ltd. and California-based Pacific Triple E.

He joined the company in 2003 as chief operating officer where his focus was on implementing best practices in farm operations and food safety programs, establishing the "Sunripe" brand across the family of companies and consolidating the administrative functions.

TEANECK, NJ -- New York state Agriculture Commissioner Patrick H. Brennan showcased the Pride of New York marketing and promotional program March 28 to the members of the Eastern Produce Council at its monthly meeting, held here at the Glenpoint Marriott.

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns will address the United Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Association's conference and expo May 6-9 in Chicago.

United President Tom Stenzel told The Produce News late Wednesday, March 22 that the secretary's appearance "has just been confirmed" as the keynote speaker of the breakfast session Monday, May 8, where he will discuss a number of issues, including the farm bill.

Wawona Packing Co. LLC in Cultler, CA, has torn down its old 60,000-square-foot stone fruit packing facility and is in the process of building a new 180,000-square-foot facility in its place, according to Brent Smittcamp, the company's president.

Over the past three to five years, the company has "planted quite a bit of acreage," he said. The new orchards are now coming into production, so "we need a larger facility."

As part of the expansion, "we are adding three cold storage rooms," he said. "The remainder will be new offices and a new packingshed."